Chettiim, also known as Kittim, is a term found in the Bible that refers to a group of people or a geographical location associated with the descendants of Javan, one of the sons of Japheth, who was a son of Noah. The name is often linked to the island of Cyprus and, by extension, to the broader region of the Mediterranean, including parts of Greece and the Aegean Sea.

Biblical References

The earliest mention of Chettiim is found in the Table of Nations in Genesis 10:4, where it is listed among the descendants of Javan: "The sons of Javan: Elishah, Tarshish, the Kittites, and the Rodanites" . This passage establishes the connection of Chettiim with the maritime peoples of the ancient world, highlighting their role in trade and cultural exchange across the Mediterranean.

In Numbers 24:24, the prophet Balaam makes a cryptic reference to Chettiim in his oracle: "Ships will come from the coast of Kittim; they will subdue Asshur and Eber, but they too will perish forever" . This prophecy suggests a future conflict involving the people of Chettiim, indicating their significance in the geopolitical landscape of the ancient Near East.

The Book of Isaiah also alludes to Chettiim in a passage concerning the downfall of Tyre, a prominent Phoenician city: "Wail, O ships of Tarshish, for Tyre is destroyed, without house or harbor. From the land of Cyprus word has come to them" (Isaiah 23:1). Here, the reference to Cyprus (often associated with Chettiim) underscores the interconnectedness of ancient maritime powers.

Historical and Geographical Context

Historically, Chettiim is often identified with the inhabitants of Cyprus, an island strategically located in the eastern Mediterranean. The island was known for its rich resources, including copper, and served as a crucial hub for trade and cultural exchange between the civilizations of the Near East and the Aegean.

The term Chettiim may also extend to other regions influenced by Greek culture, as the descendants of Javan are traditionally associated with the Greek world. This broader interpretation aligns with the historical spread of Greek colonization and influence throughout the Mediterranean basin.

Theological Significance

From a theological perspective, the references to Chettiim in the Bible highlight the expansive reach of God's providence and the unfolding of His plans across diverse nations and peoples. The inclusion of Chettiim in prophetic literature, such as Balaam's oracle, serves as a reminder of the transient nature of earthly powers and the ultimate sovereignty of God over history.

The mention of Chettiim in the context of Tyre's downfall in Isaiah underscores the theme of divine judgment against pride and self-sufficiency, a recurring motif in the prophetic writings. The fate of Chettiim, like that of other nations, is ultimately subject to the will and purposes of God as revealed through His prophets.

In summary, Chettiim represents a significant cultural and historical entity within the biblical narrative, symbolizing the interconnectedness of ancient civilizations and the overarching sovereignty of God in the affairs of nations.CHETTIIM

ket'-i-im, ket-i'-im (kittim).

See KITTIM.

Chettiim
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia CHETTIIM. ket'-i-im, ket-i'-im (kittim). See KITTIM. ...
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Chew (5 Occurrences)

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Cheth (1 Occurrence)

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